Papua New Guinea’s lone representative at the 2026 Oceania International Invitational Wushu Championships, Tony Mitu Jr, has secured a bronze medal in the men’s 70kg Sanda division in Brisbane, Australia.

The championships, held in Chandler, Brisbane, began on May 21 and conclude today, with Mitu proudly carrying Papua New Guinea’s flag as the country’s sole competitor at the regional tournament.

Speaking after his performance, Mitu thanked Papua New Guineans for the overwhelming support and encouragement he received throughout the competition.

“Before wearing the national colours, I used to watch other Papua New Guinea athletes proudly represent the country while everyone back home cheered them on. This time I experienced that myself, and it was a humbling experience.”

Mitu said the support motivated him to give his best in the ring despite facing a difficult opponent from China in the bronze medal bout.

“All glory goes to Papa God. I have learned much from this and I look forward to the next challenge,” he said.

Mitu’s coach, Andrew Molen, was unable to attend the championships after delays in the processing of his Australian visa application prevented him from travelling.

Despite the setback, Molen praised Mitu’s efforts, saying the athlete performed strongly against an opponent with a height and weight advantage.

“He fought well despite his opponent’s height and weight advantage. We had a strategy for the match but it’s difficult to manage that from another country.”

“It was Tony’s first time, so he needed that close support. I’m happy with him but disappointed about the visa delays.”

Molen also acknowledged the support shown by family members, friends, teammates and the public, saying their encouragement played a major role in motivating the young fighter.

Special recognition was also given to Samoan athlete Asomua Saili, who assisted Mitu during the tournament in Brisbane. Saili also impressed at the championships, winning silver in the men’s 85kg Sanda division.

President of the Kung Fu Wushu Association of Papua New Guinea, Geoff Hui, called the tournament a valuable learning experience for both Mitu and the association.

Hui acknowledged the Oceania Kung Fu Wushu Federation and Kung Fu Wushu Australia for helping make Papua New Guinea’s participation possible.

He said the experience would help strengthen future programmes for the sport in Papua New Guinea.